Climate Emissions

The Wealthiest 10% of Americans Responsible for 40% of US Climate Emissions

The wealthiest 10% of households in the United States are responsible for 40% of the country's greenhouse gas emissions, according to a study. The research also found that the emissions share of the bottom 90% of households has decreased over the past three decades, while the top 10% has seen an increase. Investment income plays a significant role in the emissions responsibility of the wealthiest households. The study highlights racial disparities in emissions, with non-Hispanic white households having the highest emissions and Black households having the lowest. The findings suggest that an investment-based carbon tax may be a more equitable and politically palatable solution compared to a consumer-facing carbon tax.